UCC project blocked by planning refusal

A UCC PLAN to create an outreach university has been rejected by An Bord Pleanála.

The board overturned their own inspector’s report which had approved the university project.

UCC proposed to build a 1,675sq metre, two-storey building at the scenic Mardyke Walk in Cork, but an objection was lodged by Cork County Cricket Club, who are based nearby.

The plans included lecture theatres, seminar rooms, research areas together with an exhibition and café area, which was to be linked to Cork City Council’s bridge across the River Lee. It was also proposed to develop floodlit two tennis courts.

UCC said the centre was intended to provide teaching and research space for its Department of Applied Social Studies in order to tackle educational disadvantage and encourage closer links between community groups and the university.

Officials added in their submission that the building, located in a parkland setting, would be very approachable to those who might otherwise be intimidated by the main campus.

Cork City Council had previously granted planning permission, subject to 11 conditions, one of which required the omission of proposed lighting of the tennis courts.

The cricket club, through their solicitors, lodged an objection stating five reasons why they were against the project.

Firstly, the club maintained the site notice wasn’t erected until two weeks after submission of the planning application.

Secondly, they said the scale of the development would have an adverse effect on the visual amenity of the area.

The club said the building would increase the risk of flooding and would infringe on Deeds of Covenance between itself and Cork City Council.

Finally, the club argued UCC could find an alternative site, given the extensive amount of land it owned.

The An Bord Pleanála inspector listed 13 conditions which he felt would be required to allow the project to proceed. However, his board over ruled him.

They said the location of the site, within the historic area of the Mardyke and the zoning objectives which applied, meant the scale, design and visual intrusion would contravene objectives set out in the Cork City Development Plan (2004).

Under the terms of this the site is designated primarily for use as public open space.

The board decided the development, would, therefore be contrary to proper planning and sustainable development of the area.